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Ottawa, Ontario to Hamilton, Ontario from CA$41: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Ottawa, Canada
to
Hamilton, Canada

How to Get from Ottawa to Hamilton: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$41 by busBest price
518 kmDistance
3h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Ottawa to Hamilton with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
VIA Rail
Train
Average Duration
6h  23m
Estimated price
CA$70-153
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
CA$41-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 518 km
Duration: 3h 59m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
8h  31m
Estimated price
CA$77-176
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  46m
Estimated price
CA$95-149
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
CA$129-700
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  44m
Estimated price
CA$701-702
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  44m
Estimated price
CA$703-704

Traveling From Ottawa to Hamilton

The journey from Ottawa to Hamilton takes you from the vibrant, political landscape of Canada’s capital to the diverse artistic scene and industrial charm of Southern Ontario.

Best Neighbourhoods in Hamilton

Hamilton boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct character and attractions.

James Street North
• Home to vibrant art galleries and studios.
• Features an eclectic mix of cafes and shops.
Hamilton Downtown
• Offers a lively nightlife and dining scene.
• Hosts events like festivals and farmers' markets.
Westdale
• Close to McMaster University, attracting a youthful vibe.
• Known for charming boutiques and cozy parks.

Best Times To Visit Hamilton's Attractions

Timing your visit to Hamilton's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Royal Botanical Gardens
Visit in early spring or late fall for smaller crowds and stunning blooms.
Hamilton Harbour
Early mornings on weekdays offer peaceful views and quiet walks along the waterfront.
Dundurn Castle
Opt for weekday tours to enjoy a more intimate exploration of this historic site.

Hamilton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Hamilton experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, so pack accordingly for your visit. The best times to explore are during the mild spring and fall months, when pleasant weather enhances your travel experience and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Hamilton

Try the iconic shawarma at The Keg Mansion, where the vibrant atmosphere and bold flavors stand in stark contrast to Ottawa's more traditional dining scene. Hamilton's culinary landscape embraces local ingredients and diverse influences, making each meal an opportunity to discover something new and exciting.

Ottawa - Hamilton operators

Explore transport companies operating between Ottawa and Hamilton, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 888 842-7245
Website
http://www.viarail.ca/

Train from Ottawa to Toronto Union Station

Average Duration
4h 21m
Estimated price
CA$708-149

Train from Toronto Union Station to West Harbour GO

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
CA$415-416
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Ottawa to Toronto

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
CA$411-4150

Bus from Union Station Bus Terminal to Main St. W. @ Summers Ln.

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
CA$417-416

Bus from Union Station Bus Terminal to Hamilton GO Centre Bus

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
CA$417-416

Bus from Ottawa, ON - St. Laurent Shopping Centre to Toronto, ON

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
CA$708-709
Plane
Website
https://www.aircanada.com

Plane from Ottawa (YOW) to Toronto (YYZ)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
CA$1530-1531

Plane from Ottawa (YOW) to Billy Bishop Toronto City (YTZ)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
CA$1530-1532
Website
https://www.flyporter.com

Plane from Ottawa to Toronto

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
CA$129-1534
Website
https://www.airtransat.com

Plane from Ottawa to Toronto

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
CA$129-1534
Website
https://www.westjet.com

Plane from Ottawa to Toronto

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
CA$706-704
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 888-438-6646
Website
https://www.gotransit.com

Other from Toronto Union Station to West Harbour GO

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
CA$415-416

Ottawa to Hamilton: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Ottawa and Hamilton offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Ottawa to Hamilton, you can expect onboard catering services provided by VIA Rail. They offer a selection of snacks and meals available for purchase, including vegetarian options. It’s advisable to check their menu online before your trip and bring cash or a credit card for transactions.
• When booking your tickets, consider the seating options available on VIA Rail. They offer Economy, Business, and First Class. Economy provides comfortable seating at an affordable price, Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary snacks, while First Class features the most luxurious experience with larger seats and exclusive access to the dining car.
• For your trip from Ottawa to Hamilton, VIA Rail is the primary operator. You can check their details and schedules at viarail.ca Additionally, consider exploring GO Transit (gotransit.com) for onward travel from Hamilton to surrounding areas.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your tickets in advance through the FlixBus or GO Transit websites to secure the best prices and confirm your departure times, as prices can range from $30 to $89. Check FlixBus at flixbus.com and GO Transit at gotransit.com
• Plan for a transfer at Union Station Bus Terminal in Toronto; make sure to give yourself ample time (at least 30 minutes) between bus arrivals and departures, as it can get crowded, and you may need to navigate through the station to find your next bus.
• Upon arrival at Main St. W. @ Summers Ln. in Hamilton, look for local transit options; the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) offers bus services to popular local destinations, with the nearest HSR stop just a short walk away. You can view the HSR schedules and routes at hsr.ca

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Ottawa to Hamilton.

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The distance between Ottawa and Hamilton is approximately 450 kilometers. By car, the journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. If traveling by train, the trip usually takes about 5 to 6 hours. For those considering flying, direct flights are limited, but the flying time is around 1 hour, though total travel time can increase significantly when accounting for airport procedures.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Ottawa to Hamilton is typically by bus, with several companies offering budget-friendly fares and a travel time of about 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, taking a train can also be a good option, providing a comfortable ride, though it may be slightly more expensive than the bus. For those seeking speed, driving or flying may save time, with driving taking roughly 4 to 5 hours, while flying time is around 1 hour, but total travel time includes airport wait times and transfers. Overall, the bus is often the best balance of cost and travel time.
When traveling from Ottawa to Hamilton, bus tickets typically range from CAD 40 to CAD 80, depending on the time of booking and the service provider. Train fares can vary from CAD 60 to CAD 120, depending on the class of service and availability. If you choose to drive, the cost will depend on gas prices and vehicle efficiency, but expect to spend around CAD 60 to CAD 80 on gas for the round trip. Flights, when available, can range from CAD 100 to CAD 250, influenced by factors such as booking time and airline.
You can travel from Ottawa to Hamilton without using public transportation by driving your own vehicle, which offers flexibility and convenience. Alternatively, you could consider carpooling with friends or family who are making the same trip, which can also help reduce costs. Rideshare services like Uber may be available for long-distance travel, though they can be quite expensive for such a distance. Lastly, you could look into renting a car for the journey, providing you with the freedom to set your own schedule.
To travel from Ottawa to Hamilton without a car, you can consider taking a bus service, which is a convenient and cost-effective option. Several companies offer routes between the two cities, with travel times typically ranging from 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you could look into booking a train, although options may be more limited and involve transfers. Rideshare apps or arranging a ride with a friend can also be good alternatives for traveling between these two cities.
There is no direct train service between Ottawa and Hamilton requiring travelers to change trains at least once, typically in Toronto. However, bus services do provide direct routes connecting the two cities, making it a convenient travel option. Additionally, while there are no direct flights available between Ottawa and Hamilton, nearby airports in Toronto can offer connecting flights. Overall, various transportation options exist, but direct links are limited.
Direct flights between Ottawa and Hamilton are quite limited, and the flying time is about 1 hour. However, most travelers often fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is about an hour's drive from Hamilton, adding to the overall travel time. The cost of a flight can vary significantly, typically ranging from $100 to $300 CAD, depending on the time of booking and the airline. Also, keep in mind that additional transportation from Toronto to Hamilton may incur extra costs.
Near Hamilton there are a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. For a comfortable stay, you might consider hotels like the Sheraton Hamilton Hotel or the Waterfront Hotel Downtown Hamilton, which offer modern amenities and convenient locations. Alternatively, for a more unique experience, you can explore charming bed and breakfasts in the area, or even vacation rentals if you prefer a home-like atmosphere. Additionally, for those on a tighter budget, several motels and budget hotels are available, providing basic comfort at affordable prices.

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